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Learn more about cycling base layers
Men's Cycling Base Layers
The cycling base layer is the first layer that makes a difference in comfort and performance. It manages sweat, stabilizes temperature, and improves the feel under your jersey on various rides: from the coast of Costa Brava to the Pyrenees mountain passes, including indoor training sessions or rides near Barcelona and Girona. Here you'll find lightweight and thermal options, all with an ergonomic fit designed for the cycling position.
Why wear a cycling base layer
- Moisture control: wicks sweat away from the skin to prevent chilling and chafing.
- Thermoregulation: helps maintain a stable temperature during changes in pace and weather.
- Comfort under the jersey: seamless construction reduces friction and improves feel with technical fabrics.
- Versatility: the same base layer performs well in intense training, long rides, or on a trainer.
Benefits of Twenty One Base Layers
Our models are tested in real conditions: coastal humidity, windy descents, and high mountain passes. The pattern conforms to the body in a cycling position to minimize folds and improve aerodynamics without adding bulk. You can combine them with our jerseys and bib shorts to complete your kit and maximize your performance on every ride or training session.
Types of base layers available
Lightweight and sleeveless (summer and indoor)
Designed for hot weather, high-intensity efforts, and indoor trainers. Maximum breathability and a soft feel, ideal under lightweight jerseys.
View Sleeveless Base Layer 3.0 (ultralight)
Thermal and Super Thermal (cold weather and winter layers)
Heavier weight fabrics and an internal structure that promotes heat retention and moisture wicking. They work especially well with windproof/waterproof jackets.
View Super Thermal 2.0 Thermal Base Layer
How to choose your base layer
Discipline: road, gravel, and indoor
Road: prioritize lightness and quick drying for pace changes and climbs.
Gravel: balance between breathability and some thermal protection for prolonged exposure.
Indoor: sleeveless or highly breathable models to wick away sweat during static sessions.
Climate, temperature, and intensity
Hot (>25 °C) or high intensity: lightweight or sleeveless.
Mid-season (15–25 °C): lightweight base layer with good drying + outer windproof layer when needed.
Cold (5–15 °C): Super Thermal 2.0 or thermal + jacket; adjust fabric breathability according to effort.
Fit and ergonomics in cycling position
Look for a snug fit (without compression) that moves with you, with sufficient length to stay stable under your bib shorts and jersey. Invisible or heat-sealed seams to reduce chafing on shoulders and sides.
Materials and technology
Sweat management and quick drying
Technical quick-drying fabrics with structures that create micro-ventilation channels. They draw moisture away from the skin to keep the body dry and stable.
Elasticity, seams, and comfort under the jersey
Elastic blends that adapt to the cycling posture. Prioritize invisible or heat-sealed seams and a soft feel to prevent irritation from bib straps or under jersey straps.
Quick size and fit guide
Choose your usual jersey/bib short size if you want a snug fit; if you prefer something looser, you might consider one size up. Consult the Men's Size Guide and compare your chest and waist measurements to ensure a stable fit under your jersey.
Care and maintenance
Wash base layers separately, inside out, and preferably in a wash bag, using a delicate cycle with lukewarm water (max. 30 °C) and mild liquid detergent. Do not use bleach or fabric softener. Do not soak the garment or wring or rub it, and avoid spinning; to remove excess water, gently squeeze by hand. Dry flat or hanging, do not tumble dry. Recommendation: before first use, perform a short wash in cold or lukewarm water (15–30 min) to soften fibers and prevent fading. After each ride, hang it in a ventilated area or wash it immediately; do not leave it damp in a bucket, avoid direct sunlight, and do not store damp garments in unventilated spaces. If you sweat a lot, rinse it with water after use to protect the fibers. If you have any doubts, you can see here how to care for cycling clothing.
Men's Cycling Base Layers FAQ
What fit should I choose for a cycling base layer?
A snug and comfortable fit that doesn't bunch up under your jersey. If you are between two sizes, check the measurements in the Men's Size Guide and consider your fit preference.
What is the difference between a lightweight base layer and a Super Thermal?
Lightweight styles prioritize breathability and quick drying in heat or high-intensity conditions; Super Thermal adds heat retention for cold weather, while maintaining good sweat management.
Are they suitable for road, gravel, and indoor use?
Yes. For road and gravel, choose according to weather and effort; for indoor, the sleeveless or most breathable option is usually the most comfortable.
How should I wash it to extend its lifespan?
Wash inside out, separately from other garments, in a laundry bag, on a delicate cycle with warm water (≤ 30 °C). Use a mild liquid detergent, without bleach or fabric softener. Do not soak or wring, and do not spin; remove water by gently pressing by hand. Dry flat or hung and do not tumble dry. For first use, do a short cold/warm wash (15–30 min) to protect the fibers and colors.
Can they be used with windbreakers or rain jackets?
Yes. In intermediate or cold weather, a thermal/Super Thermal base layer under a jacket improves thermoregulation during descents and changes of pace.